About Clinical Research

Clinical trials are research studies focused on evaluating new ways to improve treatments and quality of life for people with various medical conditions. They play an important role in improving healthcare and can result in the development of new drugs, clinical procedures, and diagnostic tools. It is only through participants, though, that these advances in healthcare become possible.

Participation Benefits
  • Receive new treatment at no cost
  • Close supervision from clinical staff
  • Contribute to research breakthrough that helps thousands
  • Compensation received
  • Comprehensive evaluation of your medical conditions
Participation Risks
  • May not benefit from treatment
  • Requires commitment – can be lengthy and demanding
  • Potential side effect may occur that can be unpleasant, serious or even life-threatening

When patients meet the eligibility criteria of a clinical trial, the informed consent process is initiated to help patients make informed decisions about joining a clinical trial. During this time an informed consent document is presented to explain the purpose, procedures, and potential benefits and risks of the trial, and the patient is given the opportunity to discuss in depth with clinical staff.

There are four stages of clinical research to bring a new treatment to market. 

PHASE 1

  • Small group of participants
  • Determine side effects in accordance to dosages

PHASE 2

  • Larger group of participants
  • More restrictive eligibility criteria
  • Studies the effectiveness of the treatment

PHASE 3

  • Larger group of participants
  • Compares new treatment with standard treatment

FDA APPROVAL
PHASE 4

  • Monitoring of safety, effectiveness, and optimal use

Clinical research is imperative to keep medical science moving forward, and participation is critical to its success.